Govt closely monitoring situation in B’desh: Union MoS

Union Minister of State (MoS) BL Verma on Monday expressed concern over the situation in Bangladesh and said the government is closely monitoring it.

Addressing a Rozgar Mela organised at Jammu, the minister lauded the Border Security Force (BSF) for its role in safeguarding India’s borders with Bangladesh, Myanmar and Pakistan.

“I would like to especially congratulate the BSF, which protects our borders. Having worked on the development of the North-East, I have observed the challenges and progress in these border states,” Verma told reporters here.

“The situation in Bangladesh is a matter of concern, but our government and our External Affairs Ministry are closely monitoring it and will continue to do so,” he said.

Necessary and justified steps would be taken to address it, the minister added.

Responding to a question on Samajwadi Party MLA Suresh Yadav’s controversial statement labelling the BJP government as a “Hindu terrorist organisation”, Verma said: “Such remarks are deeply unfortunate and have no place in a democratic nation like ours. The public will respond appropriately to such divisive and derogatory comments. The government will also take appropriate action.

“Whether it is the Samajwadi Party or Congress or its INDIA bloc partners, they are focused on appeasing the Muslim community. On the other hand, Prime Minister Modi follows the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’. The BJP does not believe in appeasing anyone,” the minister said.

Such divisive statements, like those dubbing “Hindus as ‘malaria and mosquitoes’ or abusing Sanatan Dharma, are unacceptable”, he said, adding that the government and the people would take note of such remarks.

On allegations of electoral fraud made by the Congress, Verma slammed the Opposition party for its inconsistency. “Congress ruled the country for nearly 55 years but failed to deliver development we have witnessed in the past decade under Prime Minister Modi. Elections are now conducted in a completely free and fair manner.

Verma participated in the Rozgar Mela organised by the BSF in Jammu where 636 appointment letters were distributed to new recruits, with Verma personally handing out 26.

“As many as 71,000 appointment letters are being distributed across 45 locations nationwide today under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi,” he said.